Introduction to Problem Solving

Aims: Recognize the difference between inductive and deductive reasoning.

State Polya's four-step process for solving problems.

 Inductive Reasoning
Draw a general conclusion (a conjecture) from repeated observations of specific examples.
There is no assurance that the observed conjecture is always true.
1. Example of inductive reasoning: Predicting the next number in a sequence
Use inductive reasoning to determine the probable next number in the list below.
2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Solution: Each number in the list is obtained by adding 7 to the previous number.
The probable next number is 30 + 7 = 37.
2. Use the pattern shown below to determine inductively the sum: 1  3  5  7   (2n  1)  .
Note: 2n  1 is an odd number.

 Caution with inductive reasoning! Illustration of the fleas.

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 Deductive Reasoning
Apply general principles to specific examples.

1. Example of deductive reasoning: The Pythagorean Theorem

Find the length of the hypotenuse in a right triangle with legs 3 and 4.
Use the Pythagorean Theorem: c 2 = a 2 + b 2, where c is the hypotenuse and a and b are legs.
Solution: c 2 = 3 2 + 4 2
c 2 = 9 + 16 = 25
c=5
2. A rectangle has width 5 cm and length 10 cm what is its area?
Solve the problem and explain how this is deductive reasoning.

 One of the most common and useful forms of deductive reasoning is the syllogism.
We will study syllogisms in section 2.4 of our outline (Sec. 3.5-6 Text).

3. All men are mortal.

Socrates is a man.
Therefore: Socrates is mortal

4. Is the reasoning in the following example inductive or deductive reasoning?

a) It was sunny yesterday, and it is sunny today.

Therefore it will be sunny tomorrow.

b) If x 2  3x  4 , then using the quadratic formula gives x is -1 or 4.

c) If it rains, then Sam will stay home.

It is raining.
Therefore, Sam is at home.

Polya’s Four-Step Method

Step 1: Understand the problem. Read and analyze carefully. What are you to find?
Step 2: Devise a plan.
Step 3: Carry out the plan. Be persistent.
Step 4: Look back and check. Make sure that your answer is reasonable and that
you’ve answered the question.

 Polya’s Method is very general and applies to all of your math & science classes at the college.